Important Arab Landmarks
The Arab World is a large piece of land that covers parts of the Asian and African continents. This reflects a diversity in areas like topography, history, culture, lifestyles, and architecture, among many other areas. Thanks to these differences, there is so much to uncover about this wonderful region. Each country is unique in its own right, and has distinctive features that set it apart from the rest of the countries.
One key area of difference can be clearly seen in landscapes, landmarks, and architecture, which are all interconnected. Behind each of them lies a rich history that helped shape them.
This means that by learning about some popular landmarks in each country, one is naturally going to be exposed to some aspects of each country’s unique features.
So, what are some important Arab landmarks?
Algeria
The Great Mosque of Algiers: Beautifully located in Algiers’ Bay, The Great Mosque of Algiers stands as one of the biggest mosques in the world. It was opened in 2019 and it features a mesmerising blend of modernity and tradition.
Bahrain
Al Fateh Grand Mosque: Completed in 1988, Al Fateh Grand Mosque presents itself as one of Bahrain’s most popular attractions. It is known for its alluring fibreglass dome.
Comoros
The Old Friday Mosque: Located in the capital city of Comoros, the Old Friday Mosque was built in 1427 and bears witness to the country’s Muslim identity.
Djibouti
The People’s Palace: Built as a way to commemorate Djiboutians’ fight for freedom, the People’s Palace is a constant reminder of the country’s past and the path leading to its liberation.
Egypt
The Pyramids of Giza: The Pyramids of Giza were royal tombs where Pharaohs were buried. These relics of ancient Egyptian civilization still attract visitors from all across the globe, making them one of the world’s most popular attractions.
Iraq
The Mausoleum of Imam Ali: Located in Najaf, The Mausoleum of Imam Ali is of great religious and cultural significance in Iraq. It is a big complex composed of different parts, and is known for its signature golden dome.
Jordan
Petra: Jordan is home to one of the oldest and most ancient cities in the world - Petra. This historical site is famous for its incredible architecture, and it draws a lot of visitors annually.
Kuwait
The Kuwait Towers: Three towers built on the Arabian Gulf Street. Each tower has distinct components and serve different roles. The main one includes restaurants and features an observation deck. The middle one functions as a water reservoir, while the smallest serves as an electricity generator. Their beautiful design makes them an attraction worth visiting.
Lebanon
Baalbek: With a history that dates back to antiquity, the city of Baalbek presents itself as a major historical landmark not only in Lebanon but in the entire world. It is said to have some of the best-preserved Roman ruins.
Libya
Ghadames: Celebrated as the “Pearl of the Desert”, the old town of Ghadames features a unique architectural design built specifically to accommodate the severe climate of the desert.
Mauritania
Ouadane: The foundation of the old town of Ouadane goes back to the 12th century. It was first established as a caravan trade centre in the desert. Nowadays, it is a deserted relic of the past with a special charm to it.
Morocco
Hassan II Mosque: Opened in the early 90s, the Hassan II Mosque was built looking out to the ocean, giving worshippers a unique experience. It features exquisite Moroccan artisanship.
Oman
Bahla Fort: Oman’s Bahla Fort is a historic fortress of Islamic origin. Its beauty and charm lie in its walls made of mud bricks.
Palestine
Al Aqsa Mosque: Al Aqsa Mosque is widely regarded as one of the most important Mosques in the Islamic faith. Located in the ancient city of Jerusalem, this mosque is of extreme religious and cultural significance to Palestinians and all Muslims.
Qatar
Souq Waqif: It is a famous market in Doha, Qatar that dates back to the 19th Century. It attracts many visitors eager to buy traditional handicrafts, clothes, spices, and souvenirs.
Saudi Arabia
The Holy Mosque of Mecca: Commonly known as Al Masjid Al Haram, is the most significant Mosque in Islam. It is the mosque where the Kaaba is located, and is also the main place where the Islamic pilgrimage takes place.
Somalia
Laas Geel: Discovered in 2002, Laas Geel, Somalia’s famous cave formations, showcase some fascinating, colourful prehistoric art on rocks. This art is considered one of the earliest known cave paintings on the African continent.
Sudan
Pyramids of Meroe: Like the pyramids in Egypt, the Pyramids of Meroe in Sudan are also tombs built by the ancient Sudanese to bury their monarchs. However, they are built differently, making them visibly distinct from their Egyptian counterparts.
Syria
Citadel of Aleppo: It is a medieval, fortified castle, considered by many as one of the biggest palaces in the world. This architectural piece of art witnessed many civilizations throughout history and is a witness to Syria’s long and rich history.
Tunisia
Carthage: Established in the 9th Century BC, Carthage was one of the most influential empires in the Mediterranean. Its beautiful ruins are located in the country’s capital city, Tunis, serving as a beautiful reminder of the country’s distinguished history.
United Arab Emirates
Burj Khalifa: The famous Emirati skyscraper, has been the world’s tallest building since its completion in 2009. It is one of the world’s biggest attractions due to its beautiful design and incredible architecture.
Yemen
The Old City of Sana’a: It is a fortified city located in a mountain valley. Within it reside many old mosques, a dozen public baths (hammams), and over 6000 houses, most of which are still intact.
This selection is a mere scratch on the surface. In total, there are twenty-two Arab countries, each featuring a wide variety of landmarks, all of which are equally worth exploring. There is so much to see and do in the Arab world, and learning about a few of its monuments might pique your interest and make you hungry for more!
